Funding period: 2024-2027
Lead: Nicole Smith
Total GRDI funding: $310,387
Accurate species and population identification is fundamental for successful ecological monitoring and management. However, morphological similarity between species often results in incorrect phenotypic identification in the field. Genomic techniques (e.g., qPCR, sequencing) are the gold standard for species identification, yet these methods are expensive and require trained staffed in a laboratory space, taking days to months to achieve results, and therefore can impede time-sensitive management decisions. To allow researchers to quickly and cost effectively identify species in the field, a field-deployable, genetic-based approach is required. CRISPR-based genetic assays have the potential for field-based species identification due to their rapid diagnostic specificity and sensitivity. Specifically, the CRISPR platform SHERLOCK detects and amplifies a target genetic sequence (i.e., identification-specific) and produces a fluorescent signal, indicating presence of the target. Recently, this technology has been used to rapidly distinguish between three morphologically similar smelt fish species, and Chinook salmon run types. A field-based identification assay would have many potential applications in both fisheries and aquaculture management. For example, common species of redfish, Sebastes fasciatus and Sebastes mentella, have similar morphological features making them difficult to distinguish visually. Research has shown that some farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) escapees have European ancestry, and can threaten the stability of the wild salmon population. Therefore, the aim of this project is to use CRISPR-SHERLOCK technology to develop a rapid, field-deployable species identification assay/tool and demonstrate its utility through the identification of redfish species and farmed European Atlantic salmon.